Step 1

Measure out 1/2 cup warm water and check the temperature: It should be between 110 and 120 degrees (comfortable bathwater temperature). Sprinkle the yeast into a large bowl, add the warm water, and whisk in the sugar.

Step 14

Step 15

Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet in 3 tightly packed rows. Leave only an inch or two between the rows so the rolls rise up together in the oven. (If making in advance, wrap the baking sheet tightly in plastic wrap and freeze up to 3 weeks.)

Step 16

Bake until the rolls are bursting at the seams and golden brown, 18 to 20 minutes. (If frozen, bake 25 minutes at 325 degrees F, then 10 minutes at 375 degrees F.) Remove from the oven and brush with softened butter. Sprinkle with salt and serve immediately.